BOHOL Gov. Aris Aumentado (left) welcomes Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos during the province’s 172nd founding anniversary celebration. (Contributed photo)
CEBU CITY – Highlighting an enduring spirit of unity, peace, and progress, the province of Bohol recently celebrated its 172nd founding anniversary.
Cabinet Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos graced the celebration at the Bohol Cultural Center in Tagbilaran City on Wednesday, July 22.
With the theme, "Sandugo sa Bohol: Celebrating Bonds, Celebrating Opportunities," the celebration brought together around 450 participants composed of provincial officials, awardees, guests, and representatives from national government agencies, local government units, and partner organizations.
Abalos underscored the meaning of Sandugo or blood compact, describing it as a symbol of the enduring relationship between the provincial government and its people.
"This blood compact symbolizes the compact between leaders, but for me it symbolizes the relationship between your province, Bohol, and its people," Abalos said.
Abalos congratulated the provincial government for its sustained economic gains, noting that the province has become attractive to investors.
The Cabinet Secretary commended Bohol's continued progress, describing the province as experiencing steady growth while effectively balancing its rich natural resources with the strength and character of its people.
In his message, Gov. Aris Aumentado described Bohol as not just a geographical place but also a home deeply rooted in the identity of every Boholano.
"It is a home where our stories begin, where our values are shaped, and where our hearts always find their way back. It is a treasure that we strive to protect with our very own lives," Aumentado said.
The governor emphasized that the spirit of the historic Sandugo continues to inspire the province's development initiatives.
"Just as the spirit of Sandugo sa Bohol has long symbolized friendship, trust, confidence, and peace, these same values have continued to guide us as we create new opportunities for every Boholano," he added.